2002 Ford Puma 1.7L Petrol · LK02 AGX

The most recent MOT test for the 2002 Ford Puma was conducted on 2025-11-15 and resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory for an oil leak that remains non-excessive. Despite this clean outcome, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that have not been fully resolved. The 2024 test passed with the same oil leak advisory, but the 2023 and 2022 tests highlighted critical failures, including structural corrosion compromising rear axle rigidity, engine MIL indications, and defective catalytic converters. The 2022 failure also noted severe tyre damage and ineffective wipers, while the 2023 test confirmed persistent oil leaks and tyre perishing. These recurring advisories and major defects suggest underlying mechanical wear and potential neglect, particularly in the suspension, drivetrain, and emissions systems, which warrant careful scrutiny during inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 92,029 miles at the time of assessment represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 3,835 miles per year, which is unusually low for a 24-year-old car. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, where components like brakes, suspension bushes, and seals can degrade due to standing corrosion or fluid stagnation. However, the presence of repeated oil leaks and structural advisories—particularly the 2023 and 2022 MOT failures—suggests that the vehicle may have been driven intermittently rather than maintained consistently. This inconsistency could accelerate wear in consumables such as seals, gaskets, and bushings, while standing conditions may have exacerbated corrosion in critical areas like the rear axle and body structure. A test drive should focus on checking for suspension clunks or binding calipers, uneven tyre wear patterns, and any fluid leaks that develop under load. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to address the persistent oil leaks and potential drivetrain issues. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes, which failed in 2022 with dangerous directional instability, must be inspected for excessive wear or binding, as symptoms include a rough ride, excessive play in steering, or a "clunking" noise over bumps. The engine MIL light from 2022 and 2023 indicates a malfunction that may relate to the catalytic converter, which was also defective in 2023. Listen for rough idling, backfiring, or a loss of power, and verify that emissions levels are within legal limits by checking for a clean exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and no sooty deposits. Additionally, the structural corrosion advisory from 2022 and 2023 necessitates a visual inspection of the rear body panels for rust progression, particularly around the wheel arches and undercarriage, as corrosion can compromise rigidity and safety. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should verify the condition of the tyres, ensuring no sidewall cracking or perishing, which is common in older vehicles due to age-related elastomer degradation. Check tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of uneven wear, which could indicate suspension or alignment issues. Inspect the brake system for corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing fluid can cause corrosion and reduced braking performance. The coolant system should be checked for leaks or low levels, as the 2022 and 2023 advisories suggest potential expansion tank issues, and fluid degradation over time can lead to overheating risks. Finally, test the 12V battery and alternator for adequate charge retention and electrical system integrity, as low annual mileage can lead to battery drain from parasitic loads or standing corrosion. If the vehicle has not been serviced recently, verify the service book for scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and suspension component inspections, which are critical for a 24-year-old car.